Plan Your Visit
This Cathedral was built as an offering to God by the monks who lived here. The music and worship that have been practised here ever since are a continuation of that offering. This is a very special place and we hope you find it a source of blessing, wonder and inspiration.
Visitor Opening Hours & Tickets
Monday to Saturday:
Visitor charges apply between 10am and 4pm
Sunday:
Visitor charges apply between Noon and 3pm
Please check any changes to opening hours before you visit.
We kindly request that Visitor Tickets are booked in advance.
Services take place Mondays - Saturdays at 5.30pm and Sundays at 4pm – everyone is welcome to attend.
Guided Tour Tickets
You can add to your visit with one of our popular Cathedral Tours.
These include Ground Floor Tours, Special Interest Tours and behind the scenes access to the Cathedral's unique Octagon Tower, the West Tower and the Monastic Buildings dotted around the grounds.
New for 2023 - Etheldreda 1350 Tours - Journey through the incredible life and legacy of our founding Saint and Saxon Queen, St Etheldreda in this special anniversary year tour.
For more information, please visit our Tickets and Tours page.
Getting Here
Ely is located in the east of England, just 12 miles north of Cambridge and easily accessible by car and by public transport.
By rail
Ely has many direct rail connections and Ely Cathedral is a 10 minute walk from the station.
By road
Main road routes serving Ely include the A10 and A142 (linking with the M11, A1 and A14). Car parking is free of charge in the city centre. Ely Cathedral's post code is CB7 4DL.
Octagon Tower Tours
Acknowledged as one of the wonders of medieval engineering, this incredible structure, suspended high over the centre of the Cathedral is considered the jewel in the Cathedral crown.
Special Interest Tours
Delve deeper into the fascinating history of Ely Cathedral on one of our Special Interest Tours with our knowledgeable guides, followed by lunch at the 13th century Almonry Restaurant.
West Tower Tours
The west tower dominates the Fenland landscape and is well worth the 288 step climb, rewarding you with stunning views over our beautiful, historic city and the surrounding fens.
St. Etheldreda 1350
This year we have a special programme of events, concerts, services and exhibits to mark 1350 years since St Etheldreda first established a monastery in Ely in AD 673.
Threads Through Creation - Exhibition
14 June - 26 July: A breathtaking exhibition by Jacqui Parkinson of twelve enormous, embroidered silk panels that explore the story of Creation.
The Stained Glass Museum
The Stained Glass Museum within Ely Cathedral offers a unique insight into the fascinating history of stained glass.